FORS charges could put off smaller hauliers, says III.
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TRANSPORT FOR LONDON (TEL) is still deciding whether to start charging operators to join its Freight Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) in order to plug a hole in government funds.
The Freight Transport Association (ETA) says the voluntary scheme, intended to promote hest practice and environmental efficiency, is being reviewed, along with a host of other schemes TfL manages, to see if a membership fee can be introduced.
Natalie Chapman, FTA head of .,.f; policy for the South-East, says London's transport body is concerned that fees will put off smaller operators.
"They will have to think very hard about how it is funded in the future," she says. "From what I understand from TEL. they are going to look at all the options and that could include a membership fee. But they don't want to exclude anyone from joining."
Chapman says the FTA has had discussions with London boroughs to allow concessions for FORS members. such as applying a light touch as Ear as parking lines are concerned, in order to boost membership take-up.
"We just need to support it and try and get more benefits into the scheme, and hopefully see its survival," she adds. "I know that eve rything is being looked at as far as TrL is concerned."
AA DriveTech currently carries out the assessment of freight companies for FORS and a spokesman says that it has had no indication from TEL that the scheme's funding will he affected.
TfL was unavailable for comment.